Routes

Canada rewards slow driving. These are routes people plan a trip around, and what to know before committing a van to them.

Icefields Parkway, Alberta

Between Lake Louise and Jasper through the Rockies. Services are sparse along the way, a park pass is required, and conditions in the shoulder seasons can change fast.

Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

A loop around Cape Breton with steep grades and sharp curves on the highland sections. Take it slowly in a heavy vehicle and use lower gears on the descents.

Sea-to-Sky Highway, British Columbia

Vancouver to Whistler and beyond along Howe Sound. Busy, scenic, and well served — a good first trip for a new build.

The Trans-Canada across the middle

Northern Ontario and the Prairies are long days between towns. Fuel early, carry water, and expect long gaps without mobile coverage.

• ConversionFloor, insulation, electrical, then furniture — why the sequence matters and what to decide before cutting any holes.
• WinterHeating, condensation, batteries in the cold, and winter tyres — what actually goes wrong below freezing.
• AboutIndependent notes on camper vans in Canada.